Doha-based Qatar Airways has announced that it has entered in to a codeshare agreement with LATAM. This move has come as Qatar Airways plans to expand its South American route network and connectivity for its passengers.

Qatar began operations to Brazil back in 2010 when it introduced flights from Doha, Qatar to São Paulo, Brazil. In addition to the partnership, Qatar also announced a new service to Rio De Janeiro, Brazil which is due to commence in 2018.

LATAM Airlines Brazil is part of the LATAM Airlines Group and currently serves 44 routes throughout Brazil, including 25 domestic airports from its hub at São Paulo Guarulhos Airport. With the partnership, Qatar Airways’ passengers will have not only an extended shared route map, but also will be able to enjoy each others frequent flyer perks.

Qatar Airways CEO Mr. Akbar Al Baker in a statement said: “This codeshare agreement between Qatar Airways and LATAM Airlines Brazil further strengthens the ties between Brazil and Qatar. We have witnessed significant growing demand between South America to Qatar and beyond…With this new codeshare, more than half of LATAM’s domestic destinations in Brazil are accessible to customers flying on Qatar Airways.”

Qatar Airways is one of the fastest growing airlines in the world, operating one of the youngest fleets by any airline. With a network of 150 leisure and business destinations operated by its 200 aircraft, the airline has shown no signs of slowing down anytime soon.

It has recently added Dublin, Republic of Ireland and Skopje, Macedonia to its global network, soon to be followed by another three new destinations including Prague, Czech Republic, Sohar, Oman and Kiev, Ukraine.

It would appear that despite Qatar’s issues in the Middle East over airspace, the airline is still committed to growing its global customer base.

Tomos has had a keen interest in aviation for over 10 years and 4 years ago he decided to take it to the next level. He currently holds a private pilot's license and is working towards his commercial license.